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Tim Isaac's indigestion had caused heartburn that wouldn’t go away. It was Valentine’s Day and he had stopped to eat in Rock Falls with his wife and sister-in-law on their way to Clinton, Iowa. Soon, he would be slumped over the wheel of the moving car he was driving.
Thank You, First Responders
A tribute to local First Responders
Sauk Valley News/Shaw Local News Network
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Alexis Echebarria loves her work, doesn’t seek recognition for her job as the first point of contact during an emergency.
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In addition to supporting co-workers, many other personality traits are needed for a career in EMS. Among them are problem solving, flexibility, adaptability, compassion, empathy and teamwork.
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The police academy at Sauk Valley Community College is the eighth academy in Illinois and the first in northern Illinois. It opened its doors on Aug. 8, 2022. The first class, made up of 21 recruits, graduated in January 2023.
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Brinkley joined the department on Feb. 27, 2017. She will retire June 12 after seven years of service as a community service dog.
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Two Dixon city firefighters are going the extra mile to protect their community and build up the next generation of firefighters by teaching classes at the Illinois Fire Service Institute.
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Dustin Dahlstrom, a 12-year member of the department, officially became Dixon Rural's chief Jan. 16. Ken Wolf became Rock Falls fire chief Feb. 1.
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A May 15 program at the the Whiteside County Senior Center will go over safety tips for seniors.
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The Rock Falls Police Department is working to educate area residents on the realities of policing through its Citizen Police Academy and Law Enforcement Explorer Post No. 626.
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The service provides 24/7 paramedic and critical care services.
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For Erie native Chad Miner, emergency medical services is a family business.
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Sauk Valley community members sent in thank you messages to area first responders. Read their heartfelt notes here.
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OSF Life Flight, in business in Illinois since 1984, makes more than 1,800 flights a year. It has made more than 10 from the area since opening locally.
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A dog and its alert homeowner started the lifesaving events in this small town where the scenic Rock River and its low head dam draws thousands of visitors, but also requires constant training for first responders when accidents happen.
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One local fire district offers help after traumatic calls.